There are several different skin cancers. Sun exposure is the main risk factor. Basal cell and epidermoid cancers usually have a very good prognosis, but not melanoma, a kind of skin cancer, which is one of the most aggressive cancers. All are treated primarily with surgery, but in different ways, so an expert opinion is important.

Skin cancer types

 Basocellular carcinoma

Basal cell carcinoma accounts for approximately 80 percent of all skin cancers. This very treatable type of cancer begins in the basal cell layer of the epidermis (the top layer of the skin) and grows very slowly. Basal cell carcinoma usually appears as a small, shiny bump or nodule on the skin - mainly in sun-exposed areas such as the head, neck, arms, hands, and face. It occurs frequently in people with fair eyes, hair, and skin tone.

Squamous cell carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma, although more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma, is readily treatable. It accounts for approximately 20 percent of all skin cancers. Squamous cell carcinoma can appear as red scaly nodules or patches on the skin and can be found in sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, lips, and mouth. However, if left untreated, squamous cell carcinoma can spread to other parts of the body. This type of skin cancer is usually found in fair-skinned people.

Melanoma

Melanoma accounts for only a small percentage of skin cancers, yet it is one of the most aggressive cancers that exist. Melanoma can spread rapidly to adjacent tissues or even to other distant organs such as the brain, lungs, and liver.

It is a disease that usually affects young people, but it can present itself at any age. Exposure to sun radiation, sun burns, having more than 50 moles and fair skin are some risk factors.

Kinds of Skin Surgery

 Surgery is often the treatment of choice for skin cancer. It is used in most treated cases. Some types of skin cancer tumors can be quite readily removed and require minimal surgeries, while others may require a more extensive surgical procedure. Surgery may include the following procedures: